One Piece: New Luffy

"So… I'm their target?"

Robin murmured, a slight glimmer of surprise in her eyes, though her tone remained as calm as ever.

But the truth was, she wasn't surprised to be the target.

Two decades living as a fugitive from the World Government had taught her never to expect mercy — only more hunters and more pursuits. She was familiar with the CPs up to number eight. She had even faced a few. But… CP9? This was the first time she'd heard that name.

"Yes. They won't hesitate," Luffy replied seriously. "Those agents have the authority to kill anyone who opposes the government's orders. Legally. They're basically sanctioned assassins, like the Shichibukai, only with suits and secrecy."

Robin sighed, as if confirming something she had already suspected.

"So that's why you wanted me to come with you…" She looked at Luffy and, for a brief moment, her smile warmed. "Thank you, Luffy."

Luffy scratched the side of his nose and simply nodded.

"If they come, we'll deal with them."

Nami grinned, energized. "Don't worry, Robin. I'm here too. If this so-called CP9 shows up, I'll personally blast them all into the sea! Luffy, do you think we can beat guys like that?"

Luffy crossed his arms and answered naturally:

"Of course. If they threaten our archaeologist, we'll beat anyone."

It was simple for him. The threat could have a number, a title, or a World Government badge. But if they messed with one of his own, he'd leave no stone unturned.

---

Water 7 is a massive island, one of the largest on the Grand Line. It's a gigantic city, but part of its streets are submerged.

There are waterways and canals used for transportation much like roads, often lined with sidewalks along the edges. Many citizens use bulls — creatures resembling seahorses — attached to boats to get around the city. Additionally, some shops rent bulls of various sizes, though they rarely rent out King Bulls due to their enormous size. There are three main types of bulls; the two smaller ones are primarily used for transportation. Bulls are particularly handy because they can climb water ramps and move easily through the city.

Luffy, Nami, and Robin were riding one of these bulls, heading toward the heart of the city: the headquarters of the world's largest shipbuilding company.

Galley-La

From the edges of the canals, residents waved and shouted, cheerful and loud. The men, especially, couldn't hide their amazement at seeing Robin and Nami pass by.

"Hey, babe! Wanna explore the bottom of the canal with me?" one of them shouted shamelessly.

Luffy shot them a glare so sharp the man nearly tripped over his own oar.

Nami burst out laughing, clearly amused by the obvious jealousy on the captain's face.

"Oh, Luffy…" She kissed him on the cheek just to tease him further. "You're such a cute idiot."

Luffy muttered something unintelligible. He wasn't angry, he just found it all too ridiculous. After all, he was a Shichibukai — a notorious pirate who could appear anywhere. And still, these men dared to flirt with the women at his side.

They really have no fear of death… Who gave them that kind of courage?

Of course, this was just a brief episode, adding a few laughs to their journey — because they were on their way to meet the most important man in the city.

---

At the Mayor's Mansion – Headquarters of the Galley-La Company

This was the residence of Iceburg, the mayor of Water 7. Though called a mayor, he was somewhat similar to a "king" in a normal kingdom.

Since this city didn't belong to any kingdom, nor was it an independent nation, it had its own lifestyle and local laws.

It had no conventional military forces like a typical kingdom, nor did it hold the same political status.

The highest authority here was the mayor.

Similar to Robin's hometown, Ohara.

Ohara wasn't a kingdom and didn't belong to one. It was just an island where archaeologists gathered.

And here, there was a special settlement established by skilled shipwrights.

One day, a student of Tom named Iceburg united all seven docks into one company — the Galley-La Company. Since then, the docks had operated as one, each taking orders as part of a single organization. One of these docks was known for having the best shipbuilders.

Kalifa, the secretary with perfectly fitted glasses and a serious expression, pushed open the office door firmly.

"Mr. Iceburg," she said, her voice cold and professional. "We've received a report: one of the Shichibukai, Monkey D. Luffy, has just arrived in Water 7."

Iceburg raised an eyebrow, pausing his review of several documents.

"Straw Hat Luffy? The rookie pirate who became one of the Seven Warlords? Has he been officially recognized?"

Kalifa nodded.

"Yes. He was initially given a 71 million bounty for taking down two Marine officers in East Blue. But the poster was peculiar — it stated that Straw Hat Luffy was to be captured alive. Later, he defeated Crocodile and… took his place among the Shichibukai."

Iceburg frowned.

"And what's the reason for his visit? A Shichibukai coming here isn't exactly common."

(Could he be here to plunder Water 7?)

"We don't know yet. Shall we send someone to make contact and—"

She was interrupted by a BANG! from outside.

"Hey, hey! Watch it! This is the mayor's office!" a panicked voice shouted from the hallway.

Then — click. The door burst open.

"Hi!" said Luffy, with his usual laid-back grin. "You're the mayor, Iceburg, right?"

Iceburg's eyes widened.

"You… you broke into my office?"

Kalifa stepped forward, visibly irritated.

"This is unacceptable behavior! If you want to see the mayor, you need to schedule an appointment!"

She spun on her heels and advanced, lifting her leg in a lightning-fast, precise kick — her fishnet stockings glinting in the window light. But before the blow could reach Luffy…

BANG!

Sanji appeared in a flash, blocking the attack with his own leg, as if it were a perfectly timed dance.

"Have some manners, mademoiselle. Our captain came in peace," he said with a charming smile.

Kalifa stepped back, surprised by the blonde's speed and strength.

"Don't be so rude, Miss Secretary," Nami said, stepping beside Luffy with a courteous smile as sharp as a blade. "We're here to deliver money, practically. We're guests — and potential clients — not intruders."

Iceburg cleared his throat and stood.

"That's enough, Kalifa. This is Straw Hat Luffy. He's an important man, recognized by the government. Apologize."

Kalifa sighed, adjusted her glasses, and with clear reluctance, gave a slight bow.

"My apologies, Mr. Luffy."

---

(End of Chapter)

"Hmph. If you really want to be useful, then entertain me, try to throw those pathetic power stones at me. Let's see if even your insolence can amuse a king."